Joe Haeg NFL Draft 2016: Scouting Report, Grade for Colts Rookie

POSITIVES

Joe Haeg is a story of hard work paying off. A former walk-on, he went on to start an unreal 60 games at North Dakota State while collecting five FCS championship rings.

A versatile blocker, Haeg played two seasons at right tackle and two seasons on the left side, and he handled the move without any issues. This is great for coaches in the NFL who see the big man as more of a right tackle-level athlete.

Haeg shows NFL-level agility and positioning. He understands leverage and alignments and plays with a poise and balance seen only in confident athletes. Part of Haeg’s comfort level at tackle means he’s always in control when pass protecting. You won’t see him get beat on his inside shoulder off a countermove because of his control and patience.

In the run game, Haeg can be special. He gets cleanly to the second level and has the awareness to spot and track down linebackers.

NEGATIVES

A lack of experience against top-tier competition will be the biggest question evaluators raise. Haeg was able to physically dominate the defenders he saw at NDSU, but that allowed him to win without great technique consistently.

The smaller-framed Haeg has limited play strength. Spending time gaining both size and strength—notably in his lower body—will be crucial whether he plays at right tackle or guard in the pros.

Shorter arms and smaller hands (9 ⅝”) on a 6’6” body will only add to talk that Haeg’s frame is an issue. He can’t get longer or grow bigger hands, but adding more knee bend and more power in his punch will aid in covering these limitations up.

COMBINE RESULTS

Height: 6'6"

Weight: 304 lbs.

40 Time: 5.16s

Arm Length: 33 ¾"

3-Cone: 7.47s

Short Shuttle: 4.47s

PRO COMPARISON: Kelvin Beachum, Jacksonville Jaguars
FINAL GRADE: 6.00/9.00 (Round 3—Future Starter)